Ativan is the brand name for the benzodiazepine lorazepam. This drug can calm people who have severe anxiety. But, used Ativan improperly can cause addiction and major complications for the mind and body. Of course, misusing Ativan for anything other than its prescribed reason is a sign of trouble. However, there are other indications that an addiction exists, and the individual needs Ativan addiction treatment.
What Are Ativan Addiction Symptoms?
Ativan addiction starts with misusing the drug. Because it works as an antianxiety prescription, it should cause muscle relaxation, calmness, and sleepiness in normal doses. However, someone who uses greater amounts or more frequent dosing than recommended could develop Ativan addiction symptoms, which include:
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Low blood pressure
- Slowed breathing
- Confusion
- Difficulty concentrating
- Problems staying awake during the day
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, seizures, restlessness, hallucinations, or vomiting
The above Ativan addiction symptoms may not affect everyone to the same degree. However, other issues may come with addiction, such as problems maintaining quality at work or school or relationship breakdowns. Additionally, long-term Ativan addiction can cause even worse problems.
What Are the Dangers of Ativan Addiction?
Long-term use of Ativan can produce severe problems for the organs. For instance, kidney problems may arise as the organs work to process the drug. Plus, the other effects can cause severe drowsiness, respiratory problems, reduction in mental state, mouth sores, and memory problems.
While the dangers of Ativan addiction are serious, withdrawal effects for those trying to quit long-term use are equally severe and require medical oversight during detox. These withdrawal effects can include:
- Seizures
- Depression
- Anxiety or panic attacks
- Restlessness
- Insomnia
- Racing heart
With medical oversight, these symptoms, especially anxiety and irritability, typically don’t last more than a few weeks. However, some patients have shorter withdrawal periods in detox than others. Because anxiety, panic attacks, and depression are among the withdrawal symptoms, patients will also need mental health support during detox to motivate them to complete this first step. Following detox, patients should pursue Ativan addiction treatment.
What Are Ativan Addiction Treatment Options?
Substance abuse treatment programs typically start after detox. Initially, patients will go through inpatient rehab to support the clock as they work through the physical and mental impacts of quitting Ativan. During this stage of support, patients will also have therapeutic help in one-on-one addiction treatment with a therapist and group sessions with other patients.
These treatments focus on having the patient understand the causes of their addiction, finding ways to make positive changes in their lives, and discovering coping methods for difficult times. Building mental health during recovery can improve outcomes by lowering relapse chances and helping the lessons learned in rehab to stick.
Because everyone sees themselves and their recovery differently, some patients may have treatments that differ from others. For instance, some patients may have greater benefits from holistic therapies that build mind-body connections and balance. However, other patients may get more help from therapy specifically focused on overcoming negativity. Patients and their treatment team will find the best options for the individual’s recovery from Ativan addiction.
Contact Us at Addiction Rehab Centers in Indianapolis, IN, for Ativan Addiction Treatment
Ativan addiction is dangerous due to the serious side effects it has on the body and mind. Getting help could prevent the worst long-term effects of this drug. Reach out to us at Addiction Rehab Centers in Indianapolis, IN at 844.910.0686 or fill out our contact form. Our detox facility is the only freestanding one of its kind in the state. Plus, we have an elegant site for our residential patients. Find out more about our Ativan addiction treatment options by connecting with us. Stopping Ativan use could save a life.
